PNG gain WT20 Qualifier slot

Papua New Guinea have secured a place at the World Twenty20 Qualifiers in Dubai later this year after winning the ICC East Asia-Pacific Championship in Auckland with victory over Vanuatu.

PNG made 159 for 6 from their 20 overs, Charles Amini top-scoring with 51, and he received good support from Assadollah Vala (38) and Chris Kent (29). In reply Vanuatu lost wickets regularly and we soon behind the pace before falling well short on 121 all out.

“It was a great performance for the boys and just reward for all the hard work and sacrifices we have made over the last 12 months,” said PNG captain Chris Amini. “All teams really stepped up to the plate to play against us and we had no easy matches so it was great to come away with a win.”

Coach Peter Anderson agreed, added: “My whole goal and whole plan this year is heading towards the ICC World Twenty20 in 2014. That’s Associate countries’ best avenue to really push our way forward.”

The top six sides from the 16-team Qualifier will proceed through to the 2014 World Twenty20 in Bangladesh.